Obituary of John Van Burik

John Van Burik died peacefully at home after a yearlong battle with lung cancer on December 27, 2010. Born: He was born October 30, 1937 in Maarsen, The Netherlands. Personal: John emigrated to the United States and 1959 and became a citizen in 1960. Something of which he was always very proud. He worked for Hoffman LaRoche for 40years, first as a chemist performing research at their Nutley facility and later in vitamin C and Bovatec production at the Belvidere plant. He married his lovely wife Dorothy Stroher in 1961. They had three children, Carla, Mark and Denise and 10 grandchildren. John loved life. He especially enjoyed spending time with family and friends, and playing card and chess. He was a talented artist and pianist and a gifted athlete. He loved to learn and read all sorts of books. He was a man of faith who tried to lead others by example. Once you met John you would never forget him because he was such a character. He has left his mark on many and will be missed by all. Memberships: John was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Washington, NJ Survivors: His wife Dorothy Van Burik; daughters, Carla Errickson and Denise Kleinman; and son Mark Van Burik. Services: A memorial service will be held at the church on Sunday January 16, 2011 at 2:00 PM Memorials: The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Habitat for Humanity. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Warren Hills Memorial Home, 234 W. Washington Ave., Washington, NJ 07882.